Bangladesh police end siege of opposition leader's office
Security forces in the Bangladeshi capital, Dhaka, have ended their blockade of the office of opposition leader Khaleda Zia after more than two weeks.
Authorities said on Monday that the head of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), who had been ordered to remain in her office 16 days ago over fears of leading protests, could now leave the premises.
“We’ve withdrawn the additional security from her office after midnight,” local police chief Rafiqul Islam said.
BNP spokesperson Sayrul Kabir Khan also confirmed the announcement.
After the siege was imposed against her office, Zia called for a nationwide transport blockade, which unleashed a wave of unrest. At least 27 people were killed in the violence that ensued. A large number of cars and buses were set ablaze or damaged and several trains were derailed in the upheaval.
Anti-government demonstrations started earlier this month as protesters marked the first anniversary of controversial elections on January 5, which saw the reelection of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The election had been boycotted by the opposition in the country.
Zia, who has formerly served as prime minister, has demanded that Hasina hold fresh elections.
SZH/HJL
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